News Summary
Aiken County Parks and Recreation has commenced a significant $3.1 million renovation project at the Aiken County Recreation Center in Graniteville. This upgrade includes the construction of new basketball courts, a larger parking area, and a modern community center. Construction is expected to last for about a year, with completion anticipated by May 2026. The project aims to meet the growing recreational needs of the local community while retaining existing amenities.
Graniteville
Aiken County Parks and Recreation recently broke ground on a major $3.1 million renovation project at the Aiken County Recreation Center located at 917 Jefferson Davis Highway in Graniteville, South Carolina. The renovation, which began on August 1, 2025, is set to enhance the facility significantly with new features while retaining current amenities.
Project Highlights
The renovation will introduce new basketball courts and expand parking lots while establishing a new drop-off zone for user convenience. A key component of the project is the demolition of a more than 60-year-old community center building, which will be replaced by a modern 5,600-square-foot community center placed adjacent to the existing outdoor swimming pool. This new center will provide shower and changing facilities specifically for swimmers.
Timeline and Construction
Construction at the center is expected to take approximately one year, with an anticipated completion date set for May 2026. During this time, the facility will be closed to the public. J.E. Stewart Builders Inc. from Aiken is overseeing the construction, while the design work is being handled by Johnson, Laschober & Associates of Augusta.
Funding and Community Impact
This substantial renovation is funded through the Capital Project Sales Tax IV along with accrued interest from Capital Project Sales Tax II. By enhancing recreational facilities, Aiken County Parks and Recreation aims to support the growing demands of the local community, creating more opportunities for events and recreation.
Retained and Future Amenities
Alongside new developments, existing facilities such as the pool, playground, pavilion, and walking trail will remain in service, ensuring that community members continue to have access to popular outdoor activities. The existing playground will remain in its current location, although outdoor basketball facilities will be relocated as part of the upgrades. Plans for a sprayground and other amenities have been proposed, although these will be developed at a later date as part of future considerations.
Local Support and Participation
Community leaders and officials, such as S.C. Senator Shane Massey and S.C. Representative Charlie Hartz, showed their support by attending the groundbreaking ceremony. Recreation Manager Tandra Cooks expressed enthusiasm for the project, labeling it a long-awaited improvement for the community.
Long-term Vision
The upgrades at the Aiken County Recreation Center align with the vision of Aiken County Parks and Recreation to provide improved service to its citizens. As the community continues to grow, enhancing local facilities will be vital in meeting the recreational needs of residents and ensuring that the Aiken County Recreation Center remains a vital community hub. Following the completion of the renovations, the center will resume offering rental opportunities for various events, further contributing to its role as a focal point for community engagement.
This ongoing renovation effort reflects Aiken County’s commitment to investing in local infrastructure and recreational amenities that cater to the evolving needs of its citizens.
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Additional Resources
- Post and Courier: Aiken County Recreation Center Makeover
- Wikipedia: Aiken County, South Carolina
- WJBF: Aiken County Parks and Recreation Breaks Ground
- Google Search: Aiken County Parks and Recreation
- WJBF Video: Aiken County Parks and Recreation Project
- Encyclopedia Britannica: South Carolina
- Post and Courier: Swimming Pools in Aiken
- Google News: Aiken County Recreation Center
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The AIKEN STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREAiken.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Aiken, Aiken County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Aiken Horse Show, Aiken Bluegrass Festival, and polo matches at Whitney Field. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Aiken Chamber of Commerce and the Aiken County Historical Museum, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and tourism that power the local economy such as Bridgestone and the Aiken County Visitors Center. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAiken.com, HEREBeaufort.com, HEREChapin.com, HERECharleston.com, HEREClinton.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGeorgetown.com, HEREGreenwood.com, HEREGreenville.com, HEREHiltonHead.com, HEREIrmo.com, HEREMyrtleBeach.com, HERENewberry.com, HERERockHill.com, and HERESpartanburg.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
